Malta vs. Poland: World Cup Qualifying Preview

As Poland prepares to face Malta in their final Group G fixture for World Cup 2026 qualification, the stakes are high at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali. While Poland seeks a miracle to qualify automatically, Malta has already faced elimination from contention.

Match Preview

Poland entered their recent match against the Netherlands aiming for a pivotal victory that could revive their qualification hopes. Unfortunately, a 1-1 draw left them three points behind the Dutch squad. Despite Jakub Kaminski’s first-half goal, Poland could not secure the win, as Memphis Depay equalized shortly after half-time.

With a significantly inferior goal difference of +6 compared to the Netherlands’ +19, Poland’s path to direct qualification appears nearly impossible. They can only secure the top spot if they beat Malta and the Netherlands suffers a shocking defeat against Lithuania, along with a monumental 13-goal swing in Poland’s favor.

However, Poland remains in a favorable position, needing just a point to advance to the playoffs. Their recent four-game unbeaten streak across all competitions offers a sturdy foundation leading into the match.

Conversely, Malta, having just one significant win in their qualification campaign, secured their spot at the bottom of the group. Their recent 1-0 victory over Finland has infused some renewed confidence, showcasing their ability to pull off an upset. Yet, their track record against Poland has been dismal, with five consecutive losses and no goals scored against the Eagles.

Form Guide

• Malta (World Cup Qualifying – Europe): Currently in fifth place, Malta has shown some fighting spirit but lacks consistency throughout the qualifying campaign.
• Poland (World Cup Qualifying – Europe): Despite frustrations in certain matches, Poland’s overall form has improved, leading to an optimistic outlook for the playoffs.

Team News

Poland’s manager, Jan Urban, has received a timely boost with the return of Bartosz Slisz and Przemyslaw Wisniewski, both back from suspensions. Following Sebastian Szymanski’s early injury in their last match, Slisz is expected to fill the gap in midfield, allowing Poland’s formidable attack, led by captain Robert Lewandowski, to shine.

Malta, managed by Emilio De Leo, will also benefit from the return of key players like Ryan Camenzuli and Teddy Teuma, both of whom will help strengthen the team’s defense and attacking threats. With contributions from Teuma, who is one of their highest scorers, Malta hopes to pose some challenges to the Polish side.

Possible Lineups

Malta’s Likely XI:
Bonello; Muscat, Borg, Shaw, Corbalan; Satariano, Guillaumier; J. Mbong, Teuma, Chouaref; Cardona

Poland’s Likely XI:
Grabara; Kedziora, Ziolkowski, Kiwior; Cash, Slisz, Zielinski, Skoras; Zalewski, Kaminski; Lewandowski

Prediction

In this clash, Poland is favored to secure a 2-0 victory against Malta. Although Malta demonstrated defensive resilience against Finland, Poland’s attacking prowess could prove too formidable this time. With the chance for the Eagles to fine-tune their approach ahead of the playoffs, the matchup should see Poland dominate and clinch a well-deserved win.

Commentary

This fixture offers an intriguing look at both sides’ aspirations as Poland pushes for qualification, while Malta strives for pride in their final outing of the campaign. With Poland’s impressive roster and motivated drive, expectations lean heavily in their favor. As the teams prepare for this decisive match, it’s certain that fans are in for an exciting encounter filled with strategic play and hopeful ambitions.